Unique and Beautiful Wildlife of the Florida Everglades

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Fast Facts on the Everglades

The Everglades is truly a magical and mystical place. But, how much do you actually know about the area? Most people know the Everglades are located in southern Florida, contain alligators, lots of water, and that people take airboat rides throughout the area; however, there is so much more to know about this special place.

Below are some fast facts about the Everglades. Some of these facts may even entice you to finally head down and check out this natural wonder yourself!

The Everglades is home to 14 endangered species and 9 threatened species.

The Everglades used to be spread across 8 million acres before. Now, the area is less than 50 percent of the size it once was due to settlement and drainage projects.

Believe it or not, the Everglades isn’t technically a swamp or forested wetland, it’s a very slow-moving river.

The American alligator and the American crocodile co-exist here, and it’s the only place in the world that they do.

The entire Everglades ecosystem stretches from the Kissimmee River to Lake Okeechobee (before peopled settled in south Florida).

It is a Word Heritage site, a Wetland of International Significance, and an International Biosphere Reserve.

One out of three Floridians rely on the Everglades for their water supply.

It is the largest, continuous sawgrass prairie in North America.

The Everglades contains the largest mangrove system in the western hemisphere.

The area happens to be the most significant breeding ground for tropical wading birds on the continent.

The ghost orchid only grows in the Everglades, nowhere else in the world.

The Everglades is known as the “River of Grass.” Native Americans called it “pahayokee,” which means grassy waters.

Visit the Everglades

These are just a few facts about North America’s gem. There is so much to learn and see in the Everglades. The best way to learn about the River of Grass? Up close and personal! By taking an airboat through the Everglades, visitors can experience the area in a way they never thought imaginable. People get the opportunity to see all the beautiful vegetation, water, and animal life that calls this place home. Captain Mitch’s Airboat Tours in Everglades offer a fun, unique experience through the Everglades. Call Captain Mitch’s Airboat Tours at 239-695-3377 or click here to book a trip today!